Top reasons to visit San Luis Obispo
- Scenic Outdoor Adventures: San Luis Obispo boasts stunning beaches, nature preserves, and urban parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through diverse cuisine, wine tastings, and charming restaurants.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The city offers a plethora of attractions suitable for families, ensuring memorable experiences for all.
- Charming Atmosphere: With its friendly vibe, San Luis Obispo provides a delightful weekend getaway destination.
- Variety of Accommodations: Enjoy a range of resorts and hotels tailored to your preferences, making your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Find great hotels in and around San Luis Obispo
Discover the charm of San Luis Obispo, where a variety of accommodation options await to suit your every desire. With a delightful mix of resorts and hotels, you can find the perfect base for your beach adventures or pet-friendly getaways. Explore top-rated hotels and read reviews to ensure a memorable stay in this picturesque Californian locale.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown: This 3-star hotel, with a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, offers a welcoming atmosphere ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Located in the heart of San Luis Obispo, the property is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along. Key amenities include spacious rooms equipped with modern conveniences, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable stay while attending to business or exploring the local area.
- Spyglass Inn: Situated 13km from San Luis Obispo, the Spyglass Inn is a charming 3-star motel with an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This accommodation is perfect for those who enjoy beach activities and adventure sports, offering direct access to the beach for sunbathing or swimming. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in nearby kayaking, hiking, and windsurfing. The property also welcomes pets, ensuring that your four-legged friends can join you on your seaside getaway.
- Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo: The Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo is a budget-friendly motel with a solid guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Located centrally within San Luis Obispo, this property offers a range of recreational activities nearby, including golf. Guests can unwind with premium television channels in their rooms or explore the vibrant entertainment and historical districts close by. Ideal for those seeking a comfortable and economical option, this inn provides a convenient base for touring the city.
Where to stay in and around San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, a charming city in California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its stunning scenery, friendly atmosphere, and family-friendly activities, it's an ideal weekend getaway. Explore the picturesque San Luis Obispo County or venture to nearby coastal towns for great surf. Whether you're hiking in the hills or enjoying local cuisine, this region promises a memorable escape filled with relaxation and exploration.
- Avila Beach: Nestled approximately 13km from San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach is a charming seaside town renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities. With a mix of seasonal visitors, the peak months from April to July draw crowds eager to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Highlights include the picturesque beach, family-friendly areas, and the iconic jetty pier, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments or tee off at local golf courses, ensuring a delightful experience amidst the natural beauty of the region.
- Downtown San Luis Obispo: Located in the heart of San Luis Obispo, the Downtown area boasts a vibrant blend of culture, outdoor experiences, and family-friendly attractions. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months from June to August, this neighbourhood offers a lively atmosphere year-round. Explore the historic college university, wander through the bustling public market, and enjoy various educational and cultural activities. The lively streets are lined with quaint shops and restaurants, providing an ideal backdrop for both relaxation and exploration.
- Old Town Historic District: Just a stone's throw from Downtown San Luis Obispo, the Old Town Historic District is steeped in charm and history. This neighbourhood attracts visitors throughout the year, with a peak in summer. It is celebrated for its cultural offerings, outdoor spaces, and family-friendly environment. Discover local markets, educational venues, and significant landmarks, including monuments and symbolic sites that narrate the area's rich past. A stroll through Old Town reveals a tapestry of history and modernity, making it a must-visit for any traveller.
Things to do near San Luis Obispo
Shopping
In San Luis Obispo, visit the charming local shops downtown for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Madonna Plaza, about 5km away, which features a variety of retailers and dining options for a delightful shopping experience.
Recreation
The SLO Wellness Centre offers a tranquil environment with yoga classes and holistic therapies that encourage relaxation and rejuvenation. Nearby, the serene Avila Hot Springs provides natural mineral pools, ideal for unwinding amidst picturesque landscapes, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of exploration.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Santa Maria Speedway, located 37km from San Luis Obispo. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts seeking an exciting day out.
Nightlife
In San Luis Obispo, enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene at SLO Brew Rock for craft beers and live music. For a laid-back vibe, visit The Frog and Peach Pub, where you can mingle with locals over drinks and good conversation.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Luis Obispo
To save money during your visit to San Luis Obispo, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are notably lower. Enjoy free attractions like California Polytechnic State University and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. For transportation, walking and cycling are cost-effective options, as the area is easily navigable. Additionally, book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates and explore Expedia’s search tool for budget-friendly packages that combine flights and hotels for extra savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Luis Obispo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Luis Obispo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in San Luis Obispo is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in San Luis Obispo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike, offering a delightful mix of scenic beaches, nature preserves, and urban parks. Visitors can enjoy a rich array of attractions suited for families and those seeking memorable experiences in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re exploring the coastline or immersing yourself in local culture, San Luis Obispo promises an engaging and enjoyable holiday.
- Avila Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in the soothing thermal waters of Avila Hot Springs, a tranquil oasis located within San Luis Obispo. Enjoy outdoor wellness facilities that promote relaxation amidst natural beauty, making it an ideal retreat for rejuvenation.
- Avila Beach: Just 13km away, Avila Beach offers a picturesque coastal experience. With its golden sands and gentle waves, it’s a lovely spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the promenade, all while soaking in the laid-back beach atmosphere.
- Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa: Situated in the heart of San Luis Obispo, this historic church showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area. Its stunning architecture and serene gardens provide a peaceful setting for reflection and exploration of California's mission history.
Best time to go to San Luis Obispo
The best time to visit San Luis Obispo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Luis Obispo falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in San Luis Obispo falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to San Luis Obispo
Reaching San Luis Obispo is convenient with several nearby airports. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is a mere 5km away, with excellent hotel options such as Hotel San Luis Obispo, a 4.5-star hotel. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located 121km away, featuring luxurious hotels including The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, which is 8km from the airport. Bakersfield’s Meadows Field (BFL) lies 148km away, with notable hotels like DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield, 5km from the airport, offering various transportation services. Each airport provides easy access to the vibrant offerings of San Luis Obispo and its surroundings.